The Intoxicologist

When a drink goes bust, sometimes the ad-lib becomes the discovery.  Well, that is what I tell myself anyway.  Recently while playing around with a new tequila that was sent my way I happened to ruin the small sample.  But as it turns out the garnish worked out rather nicely as did the cocktail once another tequila was put in its place. 

Blueberry Basil Tonic –created by Cheri Loughlin

2 ounces Cielo Reposado Tequila

5 fresh Basil Leaves

20 fresh Blueberries

Diet Tonic Water

2 fresh Basil Leaves and 4 Blueberries for Garnish

Muddle blueberries in bottom of cocktail shaker. Add tequila and basil leaves with ice.  Shake gently.  Strain into a highball glass over ice.  Top off with diet tonic water.  Garnish with skewered basil leaves and blueberries. 

Muddling the basil would render this cocktail too heavy on basil flavor, thus covering the tequila entirely.  Instead the basil is gentle, the blueberry is barely there and the Cielo Reposado Tequila weights the cocktail with just enough caramel spice.  Since the only sugar added comes naturally from the blueberry and from the diet tonic, this cocktail stays low when it comes to counting calories.  Refreshing and light; perfect for summer.

Copyright 2009 Cheri Loughlin – The Intoxicologist – All Rights Reserved